Dhanteras 2024 Date: When is Dhanteras? Know Shubh Muhurat, Rituals and Significance

Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi, marks the first day of Diwali, India's grand festival of lights. This day celebrates prosperity, wealth, and good health, bringing families together to pray for abundance. This year it will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 29, 2024.  Observed two days before Diwali, Dhanteras holds deep cultural and spiritual significance as it honours Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, and Lord Kubera, the guardian of riches. It is also considered auspicious to purchase precious items or new goods on this day as a symbol of prosperity for the year ahead.

Dhanteras 2024: Shubh Muhurat

The Pradosh Kaal is considered highly auspicious for Dhanteras puja as it falls during the Sthir Lagna, a period believed to bring stable prosperity. Performing the rituals during this specific time is thought to ensure that Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings stay in the home. Traditional Choghadiya Muhurats, often suitable for travel, are not recommended for Dhanteras Puja as they lack the stability attributed to Sthir Lagna. For an accurate time for your area, it is suggested to check local timings based on city and region.

Dhanteras 2024: Significance

Dhanteras celebrates the occasion when Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the churning of the ocean, also known as Samudra Manthan. In Hindu mythology, this event represents the arrival of wealth and prosperity. Alongside Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Kubera is also worshipped on Dhanteras, embodying the hope for a prosperous and financially secure life.

Additionally, Dhanteras is considered Dhanvantri Jayanti, marking the birthday of Lord Dhanvantari, the divine healer and God of Ayurveda. Many Hindus regard this day as ideal for seeking blessings for good health and wellness.

Dhanteras 2024: Rituals

On Dhanteras, families prepare by cleaning their homes and decorating them with rangolis and lamps. Welcoming Lakshmi into the household, it is believed, invites wealth and blessings. The main puja, or worship, is done during Pradosh Kaal, the two-hour period after sunset, which is the most auspicious time for the rituals.

Lakshmi Puja: During Pradosh Kaal, Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Kubera are worshipped, asking for prosperity and fortune in the coming year. The ideal period is when Sthir Lagna (fixed ascendant) aligns with Pradosh Kaal, symbolising a lasting presence of wealth in the home. Vrishabha Lagna (Taurus ascendant) is considered Sthir and typically overlaps with Pradosh Kaal on Dhanteras.

• Yamadeep Ritual: Known as Yamadeep Daan, a lamp is lit outside the house in honour of Lord Yama, the god of death. This act is believed to protect against untimely death, ensuring the family's safety and well-being.
• Buying New Items: It’s common to purchase gold, silver, or other valuable items as a gesture to welcome wealth and good fortune. Many also buy new utensils or household items to symbolise renewal and abundance.

Dhanteras ushers in the festive spirit of Diwali by promoting values of health, wealth, and well-being. This special day blends spirituality and culture, inspiring people to cherish prosperity and honour the divine forces that safeguard it. As families prepare to celebrate, Dhanteras brings a time to reflect on the blessings of life, hoping for a year filled with abundance and joy.